Batang Pinoy in limbo because of typhoon

PSC chair William Ramirez. Tristan Tamayo/ INQUIRER.net

The Philippine Sports Commission is hoping to push through with the national finals of Batang Pinoy that was already delayed by Typhoon “Ompong” in Baguio City.

The agency has already reset the opening ceremony from last Saturday to Monday when organizers expect the weather to have improved.

PSC Chair Butch Ramirez said there are already 3,000 student/athletes in Baguio City, while some 200 more are stranded at Philsports in Pasig awaiting to depart for the Summer Capital by Sunday evening.

“We are in constant coordination with Mayor (Mauricio) Domogan and we have moved the opening on Monday; but if we need to cancel it, we will,” Ramirez told the Inquirer.

He added that he and Domogan were scheduled to talk Saturday evening and decide once and for all if they will push through with the event.

Domogan earlier took to radio stations, reporting several casualties in the city due to landslides, and that several others were reported missing.

He added they are working to clear the billeting and competition areas within the city.

Ramirez said he is working on a general schedule for sporting events to avoid the rainy season from July to October.

“I fully understand that other delegations have decided to back out,” said Ramirez, who ordered the PSC personnel to lend assistance to those in Baguio City who may have been affected by the typhoon.